AE 342

Aerodynamics II
Laboratory Sheet 2
Model Performance and Shock Pattern Analysis
11o Semi Angled Wedge in Supersonic Flow
1. Introduction
The purpose of this experiment is to analyze the performance of a 11o semi-angle
wedge by determining the pressure coefficient (Cp) at different Mach numbers and to
observe the shock patterns on the geometry studied.
2. Setup
The supersonic wind tunnel GA-10 is a blow-down facility, where stored high
pressure dry air is discharged through a variable cross-section test chamber to yield
supersonic flow with different Mach numbers. Shock waves can be observed on different
models having blunt or sharp leading edges.
Test chamber nozzle performance is measured by nine static pressure ports. Model
pressure and test chamber pressure are measured through two static ports. The pressure
readings are displayed on the control panel of the wind tunnel.
The test section is illuminated during the runs and the shock pattern can be
observed through a mirror setup whose display is on the left hand side of the control
panel.
3. Experimental procedure
a. Startup
i. Adjust the mirror and light system so that the model can be observed as
clearly as possible on the screen.
ii. By using the handle next to the test chamber adjust the Mach number value
to the desired value.
iii. Turn the compressor knob to position A in order to let the compressor fill
the tanks with air. Observe the pressure and temperature gauges on the
control panel so that these parameters do not exceed the limits.
iv. When the pressure level in the tanks has reached the sufficient level for
the experiments to be conducted (7-8 bar), turn the compressor knob to
off position. As the pressure will drop quickly, start the experiment
immediately.
b. Experiment
i. By carefully opening the large yellow handle on the left hand side of the
control panel achieve the start pressure value corresponding to the desired
Mach number. Then, try to keep the pressure at the run pressure value
indicated in the table below by carefully adjusting the same handle.
ii. As soon as the pressure has been stabilized press the remote pressure lock
button to freeze the pressure readings and read the model and wall pressure
values from the gauges on the control panel.
iii. At the same time observe and photograph the shock patterns seen on the
screen.
iv. Repeat the same procedure for different Mach numbers (M = 1.5, 2.0)

c. Calculations
i. Using the below below formula and the pressure readings of the experiment,
calculate the pressure coefficient (Cp) values:

p pw
Cp = m

pw M2
2

pm : model pressure (bar, gage),

pw : wall pressure (bar,gage),
M : Mach number.
ii. Calculate the Cp value, using the shock-expansion wave theory. Find the
percentage difference between the results of part i and ii. Comment on the
differences.
iii. Make a table showing the measured pressure values pm and pw and measured
and calculated Cp for each M.
iv. From the photos you have taken, measure the shock and expansion wave
angles. Calculate the same angles this time using shock-expansion wave theory.
Make a table showing measured and calculated angles and the differences
between the two in percentages. Comment on the differences.
v. Write a comprehensive report on your findings.
Mach number

Start pressure

Run pressure

1.5

1.5

1.4

1.6

1.5

1.4

1.8

1.7

1.5

2.0

2.0

1.8

2.3

2.8

2.5

2.5

3.6

3.3

3.0

6.3

5.7

Table 1. Start and run pressure values for some Mach numbers.

Figure 1. Sample view of shock patterns on 11o wedge.